National Guard Troops Deploy Amid Legal Battles Over Crime Control

Tue Oct 21 2025 01:20:49 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a tug-of-war between state and federal governments, the National Guard is set to patrol Memphis while deployments in Chicago face court challenges. What does this mean for crime and safety?

National Guard troops are scheduled to patrol Memphis after a federal judge blocked their deployment in Chicago for at least two weeks. The deployment efforts stem from President Trump's assertions of rising crime in cities like Chicago and Portland, despite conflicting statistics. Governor JB Pritzker of Illinois celebrated the court's ruling, stating there was no credible evidence of rebellion in the state. Meanwhile, in Tennessee, troops will support local agencies, highlighting the divided response to federal intervention in crime control.

National Guard troops are set to begin their patrols in Memphis after a federal judge in Illinois halted their deployment in Chicago, citing a lack of substantial evidence for the need for military presence due to alleged rising crime.

The national debate surrounding the deployment stems from President Trump's claims of rampant crime in certain cities, leading to a push for federal intervention. In contrast, statistics and recent rulings suggest otherwise.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed support for the judge's ruling, affirming that there is no credible threat of insurrection that warrants the troops. However, in Tennessee, the local government welcomes the troops as 'additional eyes and ears' to support local law enforcement.

The situation remains fluid with Chicago's ruling expiring on October 23 and further hearings scheduled, illustrating the ongoing legal challenges surrounding federal involvement in state matters.